WEB WEB x MAX HERRE - Meskel Flowers feat. Mulatu Astatke (Alternate Version) | Official Video

About R.E.M.

R.E.M. was an American rock band formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and lead vocalist Michael Stipe, who were students at the University of Georgia. R.E.M. was noted for Buck's arpeggiated "jangle" guitar playing; Stipe's distinctive vocal style, unique stage presence, and cryptic lyrics; Mills's countermelodic bass lines and backing vocals; and Berry's tight, economical drumming. In the early 1990s, other alternative rock acts suc...

About This Footage

This clip page presents an intriguing convergence of styles and influences from around the world. The official video for "Meskel Flowers" by WEB WEB x MAX HERRE features Mulatu Astatke, often referred to as the "Godfather of Ethio Jazz." This collaboration is notable not only for its blend of German rap with Ethiopian jazz but also for the historical significance of Astatke's contributions to the development of jazz.

The video itself is an alternate version of a song that was released in 2015 as part of the album "WEB MAX" by WEB WEB and MAX HERRE. The animation, created by Nicolai Kovács, adds a visually striking element to the track. However, it's Astatke's vibraphone playing that takes center stage here, conjuring up the distinctive pentatonic scale characteristic of Ethio-jazz.

Astatke's involvement in this project is particularly interesting given his background as a pioneer of jazz in Ethiopia. In the early 1960s, he became one of the first Africans to study at Berklee College in Boston, where he was exposed to Western music traditions. Upon returning to Ethiopia, Astatke brought these influences back home, helping to create a unique fusion of jazz and traditional Ethiopian music.

The use of Mulatu Astatke's vibraphone playing is particularly noteworthy, as it brings a distinctive flavor to the track. The combination of his pentatonic scale with Christian von Kaphengst's Fender Jazz Bass-line creates a captivating sound that blends the best of both worlds.

While this clip page may not be directly related to R.E.M., Jam Session, or Jazz Bass (as initially suggested), it does highlight the global exchange and fusion of musical styles that has always been at the heart of jazz. Astatke's legacy as a pioneer in bringing Western music traditions to Ethiopia is an important part of this story.

The fact that WEB WEB x MAX HERRE chose to collaborate with Mulatu Astatke on "Meskel Flowers" not only pays homage to his contributions but also showcases the ongoing influence of Ethiopian jazz on contemporary music. As we continue to navigate the complexities of global cultural exchange, it's projects like this one that remind us of the power of music to bring people and styles together in meaningful ways.

The NME (New Musical Express) tag is present, which may seem unrelated at first glance. However, considering the significance of Astatke's work in bridging Western and Ethiopian musical traditions, it's possible that NME recognized this project as an important example of global fusion and cultural exchange.

In any case, "Meskel Flowers" by WEB WEB x MAX HERRE with Mulatu Astatke is a fascinating example of how different styles can come together to create something new and innovative. As we explore the archives of rare artists footage, it's projects like this one that remind us of the enduring power of music to transcend borders and bring people together in meaningful ways.

Editorial context researched and compiled from verified sources.